Spring Retreat

One of the highlights of the year is Chaviva’s annual Lag B’Omer Retreat in Hocking Hills, a meaningful opportunity to step outside the classroom and experience connection, reflection, and community in a natural setting.

The retreat began in school with preparation led by Nishmas head Tzippy Chafetz, setting the tone for a day centered on niflaos haborei as students prepared for a hike through Old Man’s Cave. In ideal weather, students explored the waterfalls, caves, and natural beauty of the area, deepening their appreciation for the world around them.

After the hike, students settled into their cabins and enjoyed time together in a relaxed and joyful environment, with opportunities for recreation, conversation, and rest. The evening continued with an engaging teacher panel on tefillah, featuring Mrs. Belsky, Mrs. Wolman, Ms. Halpern, and Ms. Nussbaum, which sparked thoughtful discussion about different aspects of prayer and connection to Hashem.

The night included a festive dinner, a creative mirror painting activity, and concluded with a powerful Lag B’Omer bonfire and kumzitz, complete with singing, divrei Torah, and s’mores, creating a warm and memorable atmosphere of unity and inspiration.

Day Two opened with outdoor davening, followed by a Tefillah Tuesday talk with Mrs. Berkowitz on the importance of stepping away from routine to reconnect with Hashem through the natural world. Students then had the opportunity to hear from faculty members who shared personal histories, highlighting the diverse journeys that shape the Chaviva community and fostering a sense of connection and shared identity.

The day continued with class photos, creative team activities, and dinner, followed by the annual Senior Panel, where seniors reflected on their growth and shared meaningful insights from their Chaviva experience.

The retreat concluded with a reflective Porch Talk, offering students a chance to process the experience and internalize key takeaways before returning home.

We are grateful to Rabbi Tenenbaum and the Nishmas heads for coordinating the retreat, and to Mrs. Berkowitz, Mrs. Fleksher, and Mrs. Schwartz for their support in creating a meaningful and memorable experience for our students.